Method and system utilizing imaging analysis for golf balls

ABSTRACT

A method and system for determining concentricity of a multiple layer golf ball are disclosed herein. One or more images of a golf ball are generated using an X-ray source, a camera or a digital detector, and an image intensifier. An edge detection algorithm is preferably utilized. The method also includes calculating Y,Z center coordinates of the a best fit diameter or ellipse of the inner edge layer and outer edge layer of the multiple layer golf ball.

CROSS REFERENCES TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The Present Application is a continuation application of U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 17/178,159, filed on Feb. 17, 2021, which claimspriority to claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.62/978,686, filed on Feb. 19, 2020, and U.S. Provisional PatentApplication No. 63/084,388, filed on Sep. 28, 2020, each of which ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

STATEMENT REGARDING FEDERALLY SPONSORED RESEARCH OR DEVELOPMENT

Not Applicable

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to a method and system for image scanninga golf ball.

Description of the Related Art

X-ray scanning has been used in the past for golf balls.

Marshall et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,390,937 for a Method For Verifying TheConcentricity Of A Multiple-Layer Golf Ball discloses using an X-rayimaging machine to determine the thickness at various locations of agolf ball to ensure concentricity of the golf ball.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention is a method and system for image scanning a golfball.

One aspect of the present invention is a method for determiningconcentricity of a multiple layer golf ball. The method includespositioning a golf ball in an x-ray measurement region of an imagingmachine. The method also includes taking one or more images of the golfball using an x-ray source, camera and image intensifier. The methodalso includes determining a diameter or ellipse dimensions of an inneredge and an outer edge of a specific layer of the multiple layer golfball utilizing an edge detection algorithm. The method also includescalculating Y,Z center coordinates of the a best fit diameter or ellipseof the inner edge layer and outer edge layer of the multiple layer golfball. The method also includes comparing the Y,Z center coordinates ofthe specific layer to determine concentricity of the inner layer withinany of the outer layers.

Another aspect of the present invention is a method for determiningconcentricity of a multiple layer golf ball. The method includespositioning a golf ball in an x-ray measurement region of an imagingmachine. The method also includes taking a plurality of images of thegolf ball using an x-ray source and a digital detector. The method alsoincludes averaging the plurality of images into a single image. Themethod also includes determining a diameter or ellipse dimensions of aninner edge and an outer edge of a layer of the multiple layer golf ballutilizing an edge detection algorithm. The method also includescalculating Y,Z coordinates of the a best fit diameter or ellipse of theinner edge and outer edge the layer of the multiple layer golf ball.

Having briefly described the present invention, the above and furtherobjects, features and advantages thereof will be recognized by thoseskilled in the pertinent art from the following detailed description ofthe invention when taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE SEVERAL VIEWS OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is an illustration of an X-ray scanning apparatus.

FIG. 1A is an X-ray of a golf ball.

FIG. 2 is an illustration of an X-ray scanning apparatus.

FIG. 2A is an X-ray of a golf ball.

FIG. 2B is an isolated view of a portion of an X-ray of a golf ball.

FIG. 3 is an illustration of an X-ray scanning apparatus.

FIG. 4 is an X-ray image of a golf ball.

FIG. 5A is an X-ray image of a golf ball illustrating an edge findtechnique.

FIG. 5B is an X-ray image of a golf ball illustrating a best fitellipse.

FIG. 5C is an X-ray image of a golf ball.

FIG. 5D is an X-ray image of a golf ball.

FIG. 5E is an X-ray image of a golf ball.

FIG. 5F is an X-ray image of a golf ball.

FIG. 6A is a pixel image of a golf ball.

FIG. 6B is a pixel image of a golf ball.

FIG. 6C is a graph of pixel values.

FIG. 7A is a graph of pixel values.

FIG. 7B is a graph of pixel values.

FIG. 7C is a graph of pixel values.

FIG. 8 is an X-ray of a golf ball.

FIG. 8A is an isolated view of a portion of an X-ray of a golf ball.

FIG. 9 is a graph of thickness based on pixels.

FIG. 10 is an X-ray image of a golf ball.

FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of an X-ray scanning apparatus.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart diagram of a method for scanning golf balls withan X-ray scanning apparatus.

FIG. 13 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus.

FIG. 14 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus.

FIG. 15 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus.

FIG. 16 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus.

FIG. 17 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus.

FIG. 18 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus.

FIG. 19 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus.

FIG. 20 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus.

FIG. 21 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus.

FIG. 22 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus.

FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of an X-ray scanning apparatus.

FIG. 24 is a front elevation view of an X-ray scanning apparatus.

FIG. 25 is a front perspective view of an X-ray scanning apparatus.

FIG. 26 is a rear perspective view of an X-ray scanning apparatus.

FIG. 27 is a side elevation view of an X-ray scanning apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

A method and system for X-ray image analysis are illustrated in FIGS.1-10 .

As shown in FIG. 1 , an X ray system generally comprises a single sourceX-ray 101, an image intensifier 102 and camera 105. A golf ball 50 isrotated ninety degrees about an axis. The image intensifier 103 convertsX-ray photons into highly visible light at sufficient intensity toprovide a viewable image. As shown in FIG. 1A, an X-ray image of a golfball 50 a shows a core 12, an inner mantle layer 13, an outer mantlelayer 14 and a cover 16. The X-ray source is preferably a HAMAMATSUL9181-02 X-ray source with a general range of 90-120 kilo-Volts and40-70 micro-Amps (μAmps). In one example, a 4-piece single core golfball example, 120 kilo-Volts with 40 micro-Amps are used. Preferably asmall focal spot mode is used which equals 5 micro-meters (μm) at 4watts. A maximum capability is 130 kilo-Volts and 300 μAmps. A preferredcamera/intensifier is a HAMAMATSU X-ray image intensifier digital cameraunit C7336 series, which includes an image intensifier and a 2.8megapixel CMOS image sensor.

As shown in FIG. 2 , an X-ray system 200 generally comprises a singlesource X-ray 201 and digital detector 202. A golf ball 50 is rotatedninety degrees about an axis. As shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, an X-rayimage of a golf ball 50 b shows a core 12, an inner mantle layer 13, anouter mantle layer 14 and a cover 16. The digital detector 202 usesX-ray sensitive plates to directly capture photons and convert them intoan image. Digital detectors 202 generally have better resolution andless distortion error (parallax) but often cost more than their analogequivalent. By using a digital detector 202, a full ball image isobtained showing all layers with high resolution and good contrast. Thisincreased magnification enables one to look at the full ball instead ofa local region with a decreased field of view that is required with theanalog system. The digital detector 202 is preferably a VAREX 1515DXT-1X-ray digital detector with a general range of 200-250 milliseconds forexposure and 2-8 images averaged, with a pixel size of 127 μm, a pixelmatrix of 1152×1152, and a resolution of 0.00146 inch/pixel (calculatedresolution using 1.682″ golf ball occupying all 1152 pole pixels×1152seam pixels). In one example, a 4-piece single core golf ball example,there is an exposure of 250 milliseconds, 2 images averaged, a pixelsize of 127 a pixel matrix of 1152×1152, and a resolution of 0.00157inch/pixel. The sample throughput is preferably 7 seconds per sampletime. The golf balls are preferably X-rayed at zero and ninety degrees.Concentricity offsets for a4-piece single core golf ball are calculatedfor cover to outer mantle, outer mantle to inner mantle, and innermantle to core, with the results displayed in HMI.

A steady feed of samples can be loaded into the measurement area usingan angled rail system. The loading area is directly below themeasurement region. The sample is picked up with a robot having asuction cup and is moved directly upwards (vertically) into the X-Raymeasurement region in front of the X-Ray source. The sample is held inthe measurement location either by the suction cup or placed onto astatic fixture for the measurement to be taken. After the measurementthe sample will be moved into the appropriate sorting chute andreleased.

Image intensifier and camera take multiple images (1-24 for analog, 1-8for digital). Preferably, multiple images are taken and averaged to asingle image. An edge detection method is used to determine diameter, orellipse dimensions, of the inner and outer edges of desired layers. Y,Zcoordinates of the best fit diameter or ellipse of the inner and outeredges are calculated.

The sample is then rotated 90 degrees by any of the methods below:having a ball held by a suction cup attached to a robot that rotates 90degrees; placing a ball on a static fixture for image 1, then picking itup and rotating it and placing it back down for image 2; placing a ballon a static fixture for image 1, static fixture rotates 90 degrees andthen image 2 is taken.

Multiple images (1-24 for analog, 1-8 for digital) are taken in the neworientation. An edge detection method is used to determine diameter, orellipse dimensions, of the inner and outer edges. X,Z coordinates of thebest fit diameter or ellipse of the inner and outer edges arecalculated. Y,Z and X,Z images are combined to calculate 3D distance ofthe elliptical centerpoints. The concentricity of the inner and outeredges are calculated using Euclidean distances (3D distance between thecenter of inner sphere or ellipsoid and outer sphere or ellipsoid).Samples are evaluated against input criteria and sorted based on thecriteria, objects will be moved into the appropriate sorting chute andreleased. The next sample is picked up and presented in front of theX-ray source to repeat the process. Multiple layers can be analyzed witha single set of images (1-24 for analog, 1-8 for digital) as long as theadjacent layers have a visual contrast in the image. This can beachieved by creating different layer densities and/or using differentfiller materials to create the different X-ray imaging contrast.

As shown in FIG. 3 , an alternative embodiment an X-ray system 300. Thisembodiment comprises pairs of fixed X-ray sources 301 a and 301 b, anddigital detectors 302 a and 302 b (analog or digital) that measureperpendicular planes without rotating the golf ball 50. This embodimenteliminates distortion caused when the golf ball 50 rotates. The runout(wobble) of the golf ball can create magnification and parallax issuesthat impact the precision of the measurement.

Similar to above, the golf ball is presented in front of the two X-raysources 301 a and 301 b by using either method below: 1) having the golfball held by a suction cup attached to a robot; 2) using a robot toplace the golf ball on a static fixture.

The detectors 302 a and 302 b (analog or digital) independently takemultiple images. Multiple images (1-24 for analog, 1-8 for digital) aretaken by each detector 302 a and 302 b. An edge detection method ispreferably used to determine the diameter or ellipse of the inner andouter edges of the golf ball 50. The X,Z coordinates of the best fitdiameter or ellipse of the inner and outer edges are calculated forsource one. Y,Z coordinates of the best fit diameter or ellipse of theinner and outer edges are calculated for source two. The Y,Z and X,Zimages are combined to calculate 3D distance. The concentricity of theinner and outer edges are preferably calculated using Euclideandistances (3D distance between the center of inner sphere or ellipsoidand outer sphere or ellipsoid).

Samples are evaluated against input criteria and sorted. Based on thecriteria, the sample will be moved into the appropriate sorting chuteand released. The next sample is picked up and presented in front of theX-ray sources to repeat the process. Multiple layers can be analyzedwith a single set of images (1-24 for analog, 1-8 for digital) as longas the adjacent layers have a visual contrast in the image. This can beachieved by creating different layer densities and/or using differentfiller materials to create the different X-ray imaging contrast.

FIG. 4 is an X-ray image of a golf ball. FIG. 4 illustrates themeasurement variables utilized in analyzing an X-ray image of a golfball 50. One variable is the concentricity (centering of two circles) C1which involves any inner layer compared to any outer layer. Anothervariable is the diameter D1 of a core or any outer layer. Anothervariable is the roundness R1 of a core or any outer layer. The roundnessis the value obtained by dividing the difference between the maximum andminimum diameters by two. Another variable is the thickness T1 of anyouter layer which is an average of the whole plain or locally indifferent regions. Another variable is the defects or inclusions 55 inany layer(s).

FIGS. 5A-5F illustrate a best-fit analysis. For a best-fit ellipseanalysis, the machine's software identifies preferably at least eightypoints around a vicinity of an edge using pixel analysis of the colorcontrast. The best-fit ellipse is generated using the eighty points forthe inner and outer layers. The ellipse is defined by a major and minordiameter and can be averaged for a circular diameter if desired. Thecenterpoint can also be calculated in the X-Z, Y-Z, or X-Y-Z coordinateplane/space. This method can determine: the concentricity of an innerlayer to an outer layer; the diameter of a sample or internal layer(average of minor and major axis values); the roundness of the sample orinternal layer; and the thickness of a layer (difference in diametersbetween best fit ellipses).

FIG. 5A is an X-ray image of a golf ball 50 illustrating an outer edge,edge find technique. An edge find illumination 501 and an edge findcomponent 503 provide a color contrast against a background illumination502.

FIG. 5B is an X-ray image of a golf ball 50 illustrating an outer edgebest fit ellipse wherein a best-fit illumination 504 and an edge findcomponent 503 provide a color contrast against a background illumination502.

FIG. 5C is an X-ray image of a golf ball 50 illustrating an inner edge,edge find technique. An edge find illumination 505 and an edge findcomponent 506 provide a color contrast against a background illumination502.

FIG. 5D is an X-ray image of a golf ball 50 illustrating an inner edgebest fit ellipse wherein a best-fit illumination 504 provide a colorcontrast against a background illumination 502.

FIG. 5E is an off-center example of an X-ray image of a golf ball 50 eshowing the core 12 e and the cover 16 e.

FIG. 5F is an off-center example of an X-ray image of a golf ball 50 fshowing the core 12 f and the cover 16 f.

FIG. 6A is a pixel image of a golf ball 50 with a center 59. FIG. 6B isa pixel image of a golf ball 50 with radial rays from the center 59.After the image is obtained as shown FIG. 6A, Matlab is utilized toidentify different layers of the ball. As shown in FIG. 6B, radial rays60 are created from the center 59 of the golf ball 50 outwards and thepixel value along the radial ray 60 is plotted and analyzed. Layers areshown by pixel circles 601, 602 and 603. The fidelity (or spacing) ofthe radial rays 60 can be adjusted and optimized for resolution andanalysis speed. FIG. 6C is a graph 600 of pixel values for differentlines from FIG. 6B. There is a “plateau” at about y=100 (x=400) and aty=220 (x=450) that would indicate an edge.

FIG. 7A is a graph of pixel values from the golf ball image 50 withlayers 610-614 at 0.1 degrees radial line spacing. FIG. 7B is a graph ofpixel values from the golf ball image 50 with layers 611-614, and center625 at 1 degree radial line spacing. FIG. 7C is a graph of pixel valuesfrom the golf ball image 50 with a center 59 and radial rays 60, at 5degrees radial line spacing. The pixel values along the radial ray areanalyzed and finding changes in the pixel values enables edge detectionof layers. This method is applied to multiple layers along the sameradial ray if each layer shows different contrast. Analysis alsoindicates if a core/insert layer thickness is uneven based on themagnitude of the sinusoidal pattern. The sinusoidal pattern shows thatthis ball is off-center for the core to mantle and the mantle to thecover. A horizontal line would show a layer of constant thickness.

FIG. 8 is an X-ray of a golf ball 50. FIG. 8A is an isolated view of aportion of an X-ray of a golf ball 50. FIGS. 8 and 8A, illustrate imagesfor analysis to identify a cover outer region. Due to the surfacegeometries on the cover of a golf ball 50, the cover thickness needs aunique methodology. Starting with a circle 806 that has a diameter suchthat it is outside of the cover and decreasing the diameter in smallincrements 805-801 (or starting with the diameter of the outer mantleand increasing the diameter in small increments) the edge can be foundby: calculating the average pixel value for the complete to be a certainthreshold, and finding four or more prominent peaks.

FIG. 9 shows a process for producing a graph of thickness based onpixels. An initial image 901 is generated. Then at 902 an image withmultiple radial rays from a center through the cover is generated. Inthe image at 903, for each line, edge detection techniques are used tolocate the edges of the outer mantle (blue line) and cover (green line).In this case, moving averages were used. With the known edges, the outeredge (cover) is subtracted from the inner edge (outer mantle) to producea cover thickness in pixels. This is converted to inches or mm with asimple calibration to produce the graph 900.

FIG. 10 is an X-ray image of a golf ball 50. Using the image taken bythe X-ray unit, an operator can interrogate a layer for an inclusion1001. The inclusion 1001 appears as a difference pixelated colorindicating it has a significantly different density. When this occurs inthe rubber recipe, it is normally darker and indicates that powders arenot adequately dispersed within the polymer matrix. An inclusion couldlead to a premature durability failure. When an inclusion is found, thesoftware can compare it against a set of criteria and sort the defectivesample accordingly.

FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of an X-ray scanning apparatus. A pickand place robot 1105 is preferably used for sorting the imaged golfballs using an arm 1110 that has vertical and rotational movement. AnX-ray source 1125 working in conjunction with a digital detector 1130generates X-ray images (preferably at 0 and 90 degrees) of the golf ball1120, which are analyzed and used to sort the golf ball 1120 intoconduits 1115 a-1115 d. Calibration standards 1135 include a golf ball,a core and a dual core. X-ray images are collected on two or more axison various layers of a golf ball at various stages of construction—core(dual or single), mantle(s) on a core, or covered mantle or coveredcore—to determine layer diameters, layer concentricities in 3D andidentify inclusions. Preferred sorting machines sort samples based ondiameters and concentricity. Alternatively, sorting machines also useinclusion identification sorting, with artificial intelligence (AI) usedto detect inclusions.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart diagram of a method 400 for scanning golf ballswith an X-ray scanning apparatus following steps 410-414.

FIG. 13 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus. A main screen provides information about machine status,start/stop machine, X-ray power settings, samples type measured,metrics/results, and X-ray image of a current golf ball.

FIG. 14 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus. The HMI screen of FIG. 14 is viewed while golf ballmeasurements are in progress.

FIG. 15 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus. The screen is FIG. 15 is where an operator enters additionalinputs to the process. The operator enters additional inputs to theprocess. At the save images tab, the machine is asking if the X-rayimages generated during measurement should be saved to a network. If so,preferably jpg files are saved. The conveyor sensor is enabled whenusing a hopper/conveyor feed of samples to machine. The calibration tabshows up to three calibration standards that are present inside the mainmeasurement area of the X-ray cabinet. These are basically ‘goldenparts’, i.e. dual core, dual core with a single mantle, single core witha dual mantle. The standards preferably have a concentricity toleranceof ±0.0005 inch. The defect inspection functions are as follows: Theinner core function is enabled if an operator wants the machine tomeasure and sort by inner core diameter. The disable marginalconcentricity function is enabled if the operator wants the machine tosort using two levels of concentricity. For example, a top level productfor tour players has a tighter tolerance than regular productiontolerances. If enabled, the machine will sort samples into two separatefiber drums ‘tour certified’ and ‘production’ based on thresholds listedin the thresholds section. The images to average (Even) function is thenumber of images taken by the sensor and averaged down to one image atboth 0° and 90°. The settings function sets a speed of the SCARA robot.

FIG. 16 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus. The HMI screen showing the thresholds function. Thethresholds include: an outer diameter with a nominal target along withUSL and LSL in inches; an inner diameter with a nominal target alongwith USL and LSL in inches; a concentricity fail threshold; aconcentricity marginal threshold; and a ball calibration number.

FIG. 17 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus wherein the operator has clicked the select button from thethresholds section.

FIG. 18 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus.

FIG. 19 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus with an image 1900 for edge detection.

FIG. 20 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus with an image 2000 for edge detection.

FIG. 21 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus with an image 2100 for inner layer edge detection.

FIG. 22 is an illustration of a user interface for an X-ray scanningapparatus with an image 2200 for inner layer edge detection.

FIG. 23 is a top perspective view of an X-ray scanning apparatus. A pickand place robot 1105 is preferably used for sorting the imaged golfballs using an arm 1110 that has vertical and rotational movement. AnX-ray source 1125 working in conjunction with a digital detector 1130generates X-ray images (preferably at 0 and 90 degrees) of the golf ball1120, which are analyzed and used to sort the golf ball 1120 intoconduits 1115 b-1115 d.

FIG. 24 is a front elevation view of an X-ray scanning apparatus 2450which preferably includes a conveyor 2455, and a user interface 2460.Sorting bins 2415 a-d are also shown.

FIG. 25 is a front perspective view of an X-ray scanning apparatus 2450which includes conduits 2515 a-b for golf balls to be sorted into bins2415 a-b.

FIG. 26 is a rear perspective view of an X-ray scanning apparatus 2450which includes conduits 2515 c-d for golf balls to be sorted into bins2415 c-d.

FIG. 27 is a side elevation view of an X-ray scanning apparatus 2450which preferably includes a conveyor 2455, and a user interface 2460.Sorting bins 2415 a-d are also shown.

Preferably, the outer core is composed of a polybutadiene material, zincpenta chloride, organic peroxide, zinc stearate, zinc diacrylate andzinc oxide.

In a preferred embodiment, the cover is preferably composed of athermoplastic polyurethane material, and preferably has a thicknessranging from 0.025 inch to 0.04 inch, and more preferably ranging from0.03 inch to 0.04 inch. The material of the cover preferably has a ShoreD plaque hardness ranging from 30 to 60, and more preferably from 40 to50. The Shore D hardness measured on the cover is preferably less than56 Shore D. Preferably the cover 16 has a Shore A hardness of less than96. Alternatively, the cover 16 is composed of a thermoplasticpolyurethane/polyurea material. One example is disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 7,367,903 for a Golf Ball, which is hereby incorporated by referencein its entirety. Another example is Melanson, U.S. Pat. No. 7,641,841,which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety. Anotherexample is Melanson et al, U.S. Pat. No. 7,842,211, which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety. Another example is Matroni etal., U.S. Pat. No. 7,867,111, which is hereby incorporated by referencein its entirety. Another example is Dewanjee et al., U.S. Pat. No.7,785,522, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The mantle component is preferably composed of the inner mantle layerand the outer mantle layer. The mantle component preferably has athickness ranging from 0.05 inch to 0.15 inch, and more preferably from0.06 inch to 0.08 inch. The outer mantle layer is preferably composed ofa blend of ionomer materials. One preferred embodiment comprises SURLYN9150 material, SURLYN 8940 material, a SURLYN AD1022 material, and amasterbatch. The SURLYN 9150 material is preferably present in an amountranging from 20 to 45 weight percent of the cover, and more preferably30 to 40 weight percent. The SURLYN 8945 is preferably present in anamount ranging from 15 to 35 weight percent of the cover, morepreferably 20 to 30 weight percent, and most preferably 26 weightpercent. The SURLYN 9945 is preferably present in an amount ranging from30 to 50 weight percent of the cover, more preferably 35 to 45 weightpercent, and most preferably 41 weight percent. The SURLYN 8940 ispreferably present in an amount ranging from 5 to 15 weight percent ofthe cover, more preferably 7 to 12 weight percent, and most preferably10 weight percent.

SURLYN 8320, from DuPont, is a very-low modulus ethylene/methacrylicacid copolymer with partial neutralization of the acid groups withsodium ions. SURLYN 8945, also from DuPont, is a high acidethylene/methacrylic acid copolymer with partial neutralization of theacid groups with sodium ions. SURLYN 9945, also from DuPont, is a highacid ethylene/methacrylic acid copolymer with partial neutralization ofthe acid groups with zinc ions. SURLYN 8940, also from DuPont, is anethylene/methacrylic acid copolymer with partial neutralization of theacid groups with sodium ions.

The inner mantle layer is preferably composed of a blend of ionomers,preferably comprising a terpolymer and at least two high acid (greaterthan 18 weight percent) ionomers neutralized with sodium, zinc,magnesium, or other metal ions. The material for the inner mantle layerpreferably has a Shore D plaque hardness ranging preferably from 35 to77, more preferably from 36 to 44, a most preferably approximately 40.The thickness of the outer mantle layer preferably ranges from 0.025inch to 0.050 inch, and is more preferably approximately 0.037 inch. Themass of an insert including the dual core and the inner mantle layerpreferably ranges from 32 grams to 40 grams, more preferably from 34 to38 grams, and is most preferably approximately 36 grams. The innermantle layer is alternatively composed of a HPF material available fromDuPont. Alternatively, the inner mantle layer 14 b is composed of amaterial such as disclosed in Kennedy, III et al., U.S. Pat. No.7,361,101 for a Golf Ball And Thermoplastic Material, which is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

The outer mantle layer is preferably composed of a blend of ionomers,preferably comprising at least two high acid (greater than 18 weightpercent) ionomers neutralized with sodium, zinc, or other metal ions.The blend of ionomers also preferably includes a masterbatch. Thematerial of the outer mantle layer preferably has a Shore D plaquehardness ranging preferably from 55 to 75, more preferably from 65 to71, and most preferably approximately 67. The thickness of the outermantle layer preferably ranges from 0.025 inch to 0.040 inch, and ismore preferably approximately 0.030 inch. The mass of the entire insertincluding the core, the inner mantle layer and the outer mantle layerpreferably ranges from 38 grams to 43 grams, more preferably from 39 to41 grams, and is most preferably approximately 41 grams.

In an alternative embodiment, the inner mantle layer is preferablycomposed of a blend of ionomers, preferably comprising at least two highacid (greater than 18 weight percent) ionomers neutralized with sodium,zinc, or other metal ions. The blend of ionomers also preferablyincludes a masterbatch. In this embodiment, the material of the innermantle layer has a Shore D plaque hardness ranging preferably from 55 to75, more preferably from 65 to 71, and most preferably approximately 67.The thickness of the outer mantle layer preferably ranges from 0.025inch to 0.040 inch, and is more preferably approximately 0.030 inch.Also in this embodiment, the outer mantle layer 14 b is composed of ablend of ionomers, preferably comprising a terpolymer and at least twohigh acid (greater than 18 weight percent) ionomers neutralized withsodium, zinc, magnesium, or other metal ions. In this embodiment, thematerial for the outer mantle layer 14 b preferably has a Shore D plaquehardness ranging preferably from 35 to 77, more preferably from 36 to44, a most preferably approximately 40. The thickness of the outermantle layer preferably ranges from 0.025 inch to 0.100 inch, and morepreferably ranges from 0.070 inch to 0.090 inch.

In other golf balls, the inner mantle layer is thicker than the outermantle layer and the outer mantle layer is harder than the inner mantlelayer, the inner mantle layer is composed of a blend of ionomers,preferably comprising a terpolymer and at least two high acid (greaterthan 18 weight percent) ionomers neutralized with sodium, zinc,magnesium, or other metal ions. In this embodiment, the material for theinner mantle layer has a Shore D plaque hardness ranging preferably from30 to 77, more preferably from 30 to 50, and most preferablyapproximately 40. In this embodiment, the material for the outer mantlelayer has a Shore D plaque hardness ranging preferably from 40 to 77,more preferably from 50 to 71, and most preferably approximately 67. Inthis embodiment, the thickness of the inner mantle layer preferablyranges from 0.030 inch to 0.090 inch, and the thickness of the outermantle layer ranges from 0.025 inch to 0.070 inch.

Preferably the inner core has a diameter ranging from 0.75 inch to 1.20inches, more preferably from 0.85 inch to 1.05 inch, and most preferablyapproximately 0.95 inch. Preferably the inner core 12 a has a Shore Dhardness ranging from 20 to 50, more preferably from 25 to 40, and mostpreferably approximately 35. Preferably the inner core is formed from apolybutadiene, zinc diacrylate, zinc oxide, zinc stearate, a peptizerand peroxide. Preferably the inner core has a mass ranging from 5 gramsto 15 grams, 7 grams to 10 grams and most preferably approximately 8grams.

Preferably the outer core has a diameter ranging from 1.25 inch to 1.55inches, more preferably from 1.40 inch to 1.5 inch, and most preferablyapproximately 1.5 inch. Preferably the inner core has a Shore D surfacehardness ranging from 40 to 65, more preferably from 50 to 60, and mostpreferably approximately 56. Preferably the inner core is formed from apolybutadiene, zinc diacrylate, zinc oxide, zinc stearate, a peptizerand peroxide. Preferably the combined inner core and outer core have amass ranging from 25 grams to 35 grams, 30 grams to 34 grams and mostpreferably approximately 32 grams.

Preferably the inner core has a deflection of at least 0.230 inch undera load of 220 pounds, and the core has a deflection of at least 0.080inch under a load of 200 pounds. As shown, a mass 50 is loaded onto aninner core and a core. As shown in FIGS. 6 and 7 , the mass is 100kilograms, approximately 220 pounds. Under a load of 100 kilograms, theinner core preferably has a deflection from 0.230 inch to 0.300 inch.Under a load of 100 kilograms, preferably the core has a deflection of0.08 inch to 0.150 inch. Alternatively, the load is 200 pounds(approximately 90 kilograms), and the deflection of the core 12 is atleast 0.080 inch. Further, a compressive deformation from a beginningload of 10 kilograms to an ending load of 130 kilograms for the innercore ranges from 4 millimeters to 7 millimeters and more preferably from5 millimeters to 6.5 millimeters. The dual core deflection differentialallows for low spin off the tee to provide greater distance, and highspin on approach shots.

In an alternative embodiment of the golf ball, the golf ball 10comprises an inner core 12 a, an intermediate core 12 b, an outer core12 b, a mantle 14 and a cover 16. The golf ball 10 preferably has adiameter of at least 1.68 inches, a mass ranging from 45 grams to 47grams, a COR of at least 0.79, a deformation under a 100 kilogramloading of at least 0.07 mm.

In one embodiment, the golf ball comprises a core, a mantle layer and acover layer. The core comprises an inner core sphere, an intermediatecore layer and an outer core layer. The inner core sphere comprises apolybutadiene material and has a diameter ranging from 0.875 inch to 1.4inches. The intermediate core layer is composed of a highly neutralizedionomer and has a Shore D hardness less than 40. The outer core layer iscomposed of a highly neutralized ionomer and has a Shore D hardness lessthan 45. A thickness of the intermediate core layer is greater than athickness of the outer core layer. The mantle layer is disposed over thecore, comprises an ionomer material and has a Shore D hardness greaterthan 55. The cover layer is disposed over the mantle layer comprises athermoplastic polyurethane material and has a Shore A hardness less than100. The golf ball has a diameter of at least 1.68 inches. The mantlelayer is harder than the outer core layer, the outer core layer isharder than the intermediate core layer, the intermediate core layer isharder than the inner core sphere, and the cover layer is softer thanthe mantle layer.

In another golf ball, the golf ball 10 has a multi-layer core andmulti-layer mantle. The golf ball includes a core, a mantle componentand a cover layer. The core comprises an inner core sphere, anintermediate core layer and an outer core layer. The inner core spherecomprises a polybutadiene material and has a diameter ranging from 0.875inch to 1.4 inches. The intermediate core layer is composed of a highlyneutralized ionomer and has a Shore D hardness less than 40. The outercore layer is composed of a highly neutralized ionomer and has a Shore Dhardness less than 45. A thickness of the intermediate core layer isgreater than a thickness of the outer core layer 12 c. The inner mantlelayer is disposed over the core, comprises an ionomer material and has aShore D hardness greater than 55. The outer mantle layer is disposedover the inner mantle layer, comprises an ionomer material and has aShore D hardness greater than 60. The cover layer is disposed over themantle component, comprises a thermoplastic polyurethane material andhas a Shore A hardness less than 100. The golf ball has a diameter of atleast 1.68 inches. The outer mantle layer is harder than the innermantle layer, the inner mantle layer is harder than the outer corelayer, the outer core layer is harder than the intermediate core layer,the intermediate core layer is harder than the inner core sphere, andthe cover layer is softer than the outer mantle layer.

In a particularly preferred embodiment of the invention, the golf ballpreferably has an aerodynamic pattern such as disclosed in Simonds etal., U.S. Pat. No. 7,419,443 for a Low Volume Cover For A Golf Ball,which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.Alternatively, the golf ball has an aerodynamic pattern such asdisclosed in Simonds et al., U.S. Pat. No. 7,338,392 for An AerodynamicSurface Geometry For A Golf Ball, which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

Various aspects of the present invention golf balls have been describedin terms of certain tests or measuring procedures. These are describedin greater detail as follows.

As used herein, “Shore D hardness” of the golf ball layers is measuredgenerally in accordance with ASTM D-2240 type D, except the measurementsmay be made on the curved surface of a component of the golf ball,rather than on a plaque. If measured on the ball, the measurement willindicate that the measurement was made on the ball. In referring to ahardness of a material of a layer of the golf ball, the measurement willbe made on a plaque in accordance with ASTM D-2240. Furthermore, theShore D hardness of the cover is measured while the cover remains overthe mantles and cores. When a hardness measurement is made on the golfball, the Shore D hardness is preferably measured at a land area of thecover.

As used herein, “Shore A hardness” of a cover is measured generally inaccordance with ASTM D-2240 type A, except the measurements may be madeon the curved surface of a component of the golf ball, rather than on aplaque. If measured on the ball, the measurement will indicate that themeasurement was made on the ball. In referring to a hardness of amaterial of a layer of the golf ball, the measurement will be made on aplaque in accordance with ASTM D-2240. Furthermore, the Shore A hardnessof the cover is measured while the cover remains over the mantles andcores. When a hardness measurement is made on the golf ball, Shore Ahardness is preferably measured at a land area of the cover

The resilience or coefficient of restitution (COR) of a golf ball is theconstant “e,” which is the ratio of the relative velocity of an elasticsphere after direct impact to that before impact. As a result, the COR(“e”) can vary from 0 to 1, with 1 being equivalent to a perfectly orcompletely elastic collision and 0 being equivalent to a perfectly orcompletely inelastic collision.

COR, along with additional factors such as club head speed, club headmass, ball weight, ball size and density, spin rate, angle of trajectoryand surface configuration as well as environmental conditions (e.g.temperature, moisture, atmospheric pressure, wind, etc.) generallydetermine the distance a ball will travel when hit. Along this line, thedistance a golf ball will travel under controlled environmentalconditions is a function of the speed and mass of the club and size,density and resilience (COR) of the ball and other factors. The initialvelocity of the club, the mass of the club and the angle of the ball'sdeparture are essentially provided by the golfer upon striking. Sinceclub head speed, club head mass, the angle of trajectory andenvironmental conditions are not determinants controllable by golf ballproducers and the ball size and weight are set by the U.S.G.A., theseare not factors of concern among golf ball manufacturers. The factors ordeterminants of interest with respect to improved distance are generallythe COR and the surface configuration of the ball.

The coefficient of restitution is the ratio of the outgoing velocity tothe incoming velocity. In the examples of this application, thecoefficient of restitution of a golf ball was measured by propelling aball horizontally at a speed of 125+/−5 feet per second (fps) andcorrected to 125 fps against a generally vertical, hard, flat steelplate and measuring the ball's incoming and outgoing velocityelectronically. Speeds were measured with a pair of ballistic screens,which provide a timing pulse when an object passes through them. Thescreens were separated by 36 inches and are located 25.25 inches and61.25 inches from the rebound wall. The ball speed was measured bytiming the pulses from screen 1 to screen 2 on the way into the reboundwall (as the average speed of the ball over 36 inches), and then theexit speed was timed from screen 2 to screen 1 over the same distance.The rebound wall was tilted 2 degrees from a vertical plane to allow theball to rebound slightly downward in order to miss the edge of thecannon that fired it. The rebound wall is solid steel.

As indicated above, the incoming speed should be 125±5 fps but correctedto 125 fps. The correlation between COR and forward or incoming speedhas been studied and a correction has been made over the ±5 fps range sothat the COR is reported as if the ball had an incoming speed of exactly125.0 fps.

The measurements for deflection, compression, hardness, and the like arepreferably performed on a finished golf ball as opposed to performingthe measurement on each layer during manufacturing.

Preferably, in a five layer golf ball comprising an inner core, an outercore, an inner mantle layer, an outer mantle layer and a cover, thehardness/compression of layers involve an inner core with the greatestdeflection (lowest hardness), an outer core (combined with the innercore) with a deflection less than the inner core, an inner mantle layerwith a hardness less than the hardness of the combined outer core andinner core, an outer mantle layer with the hardness layer of the golfball, and a cover with a hardness less than the hardness of the outermantle layer. These measurements are preferably made on a finished golfball that has been torn down for the measurements.

Preferably the inner mantle layer is thicker than the outer mantle layeror the cover layer. The dual core and dual mantle golf ball creates anoptimized velocity-initial velocity ratio (Vi/IV), and allows for spinmanipulation. The dual core provides for increased core compressiondifferential resulting in a high spin for short game shots and a lowspin for driver shots. A discussion of the USGA initial velocity test isdisclosed in Yagley et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,595,872 for a Golf Ball WithHigh Coefficient Of Restitution, which is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety. Another example is Bartels et al., U.S. Pat.No. 6,648,775 for a Golf Ball With High Coefficient Of Restitution,which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Crast et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,632,877, for a Dual Curable Coating, ishereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Skrabski et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,544,337, for a Golf ball PaintingSystem, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Crast et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,365,679, for a Two component polyurethaneclear coat for golf balls, is hereby incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

Crast et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,165,564, for a UV Clearable Clear Coat ForGolf Balls, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Skrabski et al., U.S. Pat. No. 6,319,563, for a Golf ball PaintingMethod, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Bartels, U.S. Pat. No. 9,278,260, for a Low Compression Three-Piece GolfBall With An Aerodynamic Drag Rise At High Speeds, is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

Chavan et al, U.S. Pat. No. 9,789,366, for a Graphene Core For A GolfBall, is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

Chavan et al, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/705,011, filed on Sep.14, 2017, for a Graphene Core For A Golf Ball, is hereby incorporated byreference in its entirety.

Chavan et al, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/729,231, filed on Oct.10, 2017, for a Graphene And Nanotube Reinforced Golf Ball, is herebyincorporated by reference in its entirety.

From the foregoing it is believed that those skilled in the pertinentart will recognize the meritorious advancement of this invention andwill readily understand that while the present invention has beendescribed in association with a preferred embodiment thereof, and otherembodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, numerous changes,modifications and substitutions of equivalents may be made thereinwithout departing from the spirit and scope of this invention which isintended to be unlimited by the foregoing except as may appear in thefollowing appended claims. Therefore, the embodiments of the inventionin which an exclusive property or privilege is claimed are defined inthe following appended claims.

We claim as our invention the following:
 1. A method for determiningconcentricity of a multiple layer golf ball, the method comprising:taking a first plurality of images of the full cross-sectional view ofthe golf ball using an x-ray source and a digital detector; averagingthe first plurality of images into a single first image of the fullcross-sectional view of the golf ball; calculating Y,Z centercoordinates of a best fit diameter or ellipse of an inner edge layer andan outer edge layer of a specific layer of the multiple layer golf ballusing the single first image of the full cross-sectional view of thegolf ball; rotating the golf ball to a new orientation within an imagingmachine 90 degrees about a Z-Axis; taking a second plurality of imagesof the full cross-sectional view of the golf ball in the new orientationusing the x-ray source and the digital detector; averaging the secondplurality of images into a second single image of the fullcross-sectional view of the golf ball; calculating X,Z centercoordinates of a best fit diameter or ellipse of the inner edge layerand outer edge layer of the specific layer of the multiple layer golfball; and comparing the X,Z and Y,Z center coordinates of the specificlayer to determine the concentricity of the inner layer within any ofthe outer layers.
 2. The method according to claim 1 wherein theplurality of images range from 2 to 24 and a single image is derived byaveraging a plurality of images.
 3. The method according to claim 1wherein the concentricity of the inner and outer edges are calculatedusing Euclidean distances.
 4. The method according to claim 1 whereinthe golf ball is held in a suction cup.
 5. The method according to claim1 wherein the golf ball is held in a static fixture.
 6. The methodaccording to claim 1 wherein the golf ball consist of four layers. 7.The method according to claim 1 further comprising evaluating the golfball against a predetermined criteria.
 8. The method according to claim7 further comprising sorting the golf ball according to the evaluation.9. The method according to claim 1 wherein each layer of the multiplelayer golf ball has a visual contrast relative to an adjacent layer. 10.The method according to claim 9 wherein the visual contrast of theadjacent layers is created by materials of different densities ordifferent filler materials.
 11. A method for determining concentricityof a multiple layer golf ball, the method comprising: taking a pluralityof images of a full cross-sectional view of the multiple layer golf ballusing an x-ray source and a digital detector; averaging the plurality ofimages into a single image of the full cross-sectional view of themultiple layer golf ball; determining a diameter or ellipse dimensionsof an inner edge and an outer edge of a layer of the multiple layer golfball utilizing an edge detection algorithm; and calculating X,Zcoordinates of a best fit diameter or ellipse of the inner edge andouter edge the layer of the multiple layer golf ball.
 12. The methodaccording to claim 11 wherein the plurality of images range from 2 to 8.13. The method according to claim 11 wherein the concentricity of theinner and outer edges are calculated using Euclidean distances.
 14. Themethod according to claim 11 wherein the multiple layer golf ball isheld in a suction cup.
 15. The method according to claim 11 wherein themultiple layer golf ball is held in a static fixture.
 16. The methodaccording to claim 11 wherein the multiple layer golf ball is rotated 90degrees about a Z-Axis to determine the Y,Z coordinates of a best fitdiameter or ellipse of the inner edge and the outer edge of the layer ofthe golf ball in a second orientation.
 17. The method according to claim11 further comprising evaluating the multiple layer golf ball against apredetermined criteria.
 18. The method according to claim 17 furthercomprising sorting the multiple layer golf ball according to theevaluation.
 19. The method according to claim 11 wherein each layer ofthe multiple layer golf ball has a visual contrast.
 20. The methodaccording to claim 19 wherein the visual contrast is created bydifferent densities or different filler materials.